WeddingDay Pro Spotlight: Laura Spencer of Laura Spencer Photography

Self-taught and self-made, Laura Spencer Photography loves getting to the heart of all her couples that she photographs. Whether it’s your engagement session or wedding photography, you can count on Laura getting to the root of who you are and capturing your unique love story with her personal photography flair.

Photography was always a part of Laura’s life, as she was inspired by her grandfather. Once she had a family of her own, she rediscovered her love for it and wanted to start sharing other peoples’ stories in the process. When you hire Laura Spencer Photography for any of your photography needs, she’s sure to make you feel like yourself in front of the lens! Read on to hear more about what keeps Laura so passionate about photography.

What inspired your business? What keeps you motivated?

"My grandpa was a professional photographer and I always remember as a kid wanting to be just like him. I had a point-and-shoot camera all throughout middle school and high school that I took EVERYWHERE with me. It wasn’t until I had my daughter in 2019 that I decided I wanted to take my hobby and turn it into a profession. I LOVE doing what I do—I have met so many talented and amazing photographers, who have become some of my closest friends, that keep me inspired and motivated."

Tell us about your experience/skills.

"In 2016, I graduated from Grand Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in business. While I did not go to school for photography, I have taken a few online courses that have helped me learn and grow. I would consider myself more of a self-taught photographer—I have done many style shoots that have helped bring out my creative side and led me to meeting the most incredible people who also work in this industry. This is my third year doing weddings and it has been the best decision I have ever made!"

As a business owner, what do you wish to accomplish with your customers? What can a couple look forward to when booking you?

"Although I am your photographer, I love creating a personal and friendly connection with my customers, too! I want my brides to be able to rely on me. Your wedding day goes by SO FAST and can seem super stressful or chaotic. I want to make sure every bride feels relaxed and soaks in every moment on their best day ever."

Give us an overview of your services. What makes your business unique?

"I am a wedding and lifestyle photographer. I offer a wide range of services including engagement, family, maternity and high school seniors. While I love capturing all those things, my true passion is couples and weddings. I would consider my style to be more movement-oriented with a little bit of editorial. I love being able to capture those authentic moments that feel intimate and warm, while also bringing out my creative side by doing some editorial shots. When you have a session with me, you will always notice a nylon sock on my camera. I try to bring out my creative side by using that over my lens to create those grainy/vintage looking images."

Tell us about your favorite part of your job. What keeps it fun for you?

"My favorite part of my job is being able to document and tell my clients’ stories through images. Every couple is different and unique in their own beautiful way and being able to be creative and produce different images based on their personalities is what keeps it fun for me."

What do you love about the industry you work in?

"The people! I love being able to meet so many new people and creating connections and friendships."

What’s the most common question you get from couples? What’s your answer to it?

"The most common question I get from couples is, 'What do I love most about photographing weddings?' My answer is always this—I LOVE being able to tell your story. I love watching two people come together with their friends and family to celebrate their love for one another. This is the day you will look back on for many years and being able to witness and document the love the two of you have for one another will always be what I love most."

What are the best tips you have for helping couples prepare for their big day? Any other words of wisdom to share?

"Don’t stress about the wedding—this day is about YOUR love for each other. Your day goes by so quickly, so instead of fixating on the very small details you may not remember, allow yourself to be fully present with your partner. Make time on your wedding day after your ceremony where you two go off alone—no photographers, no one else, just you two and soak in that moment that is also the beginning of your forever."

Take a moment to brag about something you’re proud of.

"I am proud of how far I have come. I built my business from the ground up, while also being a stay-at-home mom raising my two kids. Being self-taught, I have spent many late nights watching videos and taking online courses that have helped me grow. If you would have asked me four years ago when I started my business if I could ever see myself doing weddings, I would have said I am not good enough for that. The growth in just four years is astounding to me and I am so proud of myself for never giving up and following my dreams of becoming a professional wedding photographer."

How do you calm the nerves of anxious customers? What do you do to make them feel comfortable?

"Before we even begin with a photoshoot, I always ask my couple what kind of music they like to listen to. I always carry my portable speaker with me to sessions and put on music that my clients enjoy, making the session more fun and relaxed. I have a lot of prompts that may seem silly and weird but that also brings out a lot of natural reactions that make clients feel more comfortable!"

What are your future goals for your business? How do you see it growing in the future?

"I would love to travel and be able to do more destination weddings. Since my kids are so young, it is easier for me to stay in Michigan or surrounding areas. One day I would love to offer destination weddings and see people share their love story with me in different parts of the country."

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Soma

March 31, 2024

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Dreaming of expanding to destination weddings, but for now, focusing on Michigan and nearby areas due to young kids. Excited for future possibilities.

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